Getting into contracting whilst in a permenant job.

[reckless2k]

Hi all,

I'm looking to go into IT Contracting. I'm a SQL Server DBA.

The problem I have is my notice period in my current permanent position.

It's 6 weeks, which scares of any recruiter.

Generally I've seen that for most contract positions they want you to start as soon as possible - 1-2 weeks usually.

My plan is to leave my current job (it's a bad environment and has no future prospects).

I will land another permanent position in a better company and during the first 3 months (probabtion period) I will only have to provide a one week notice.

I know it's not the most moral thing to do but has anyone ever done something similar. Will it be possible to get a contract whilst in my probation period or will recruiters avoid someone who is using these tactics?

Or do you have any other advice for me?

Thanks

[SueEllen]

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Alternatively have a look at the professional forums for answers to your questions using the search facility or searching using google. If you can't find the answer to your questions then post them there.

[vetran]

well my first contract waited 5 weeks for me.

you can of course negotiate shorter notice periods if you ask nicely.

[mudskipper]

permanent.

[scooterscot]

Recruiters are not paying you, clients are. Look for direct opportunities. On average they take my 9-12 months to get on the supplier list.

[jmo21]

I took that route into contracting, although it wasn't intentional.

Started a new permie job, 6 months probation, with one week notice both sides.

Finished my first project with them, had worked beside a bunch of contractors, who affirmed my belief that I wanted to contract, so took the chance and handed my one week notice in (with 2 weeks to go of my probation).

It then took me almost 3 months to get my first contract.

And it was a 6 week contract to cover for another contractor who had abruptly quit.

Not ideal, but after 3 months bench time I was a little nervous, so I took it.

It got extended out to 6 months, and I cheered up dramatically!

[vwdan]

I gave my employer 3 months notice and managed to get a short 8 week contract which started immediately after I left. That closed a couple of weeks early, but I managed to get a contract with 1 weeks bench time. That contract finished on Friday and I'm now on the bench, but this time I'm taking a little time to sort some bits and bobs out and change my focus a little.

[alreadypacked]

The move to contracting will always require you to jump.
If you save enough money and cut down your costs, the jump will be easier, but it is still a jump.

[TheFaQQer]

well my first contract waited 5 weeks for me.

you can of course negotiate shorter notice periods if you ask nicely.

This.

My first contract said they would wait for my notice period (4 weeks) to complete. I then negotiated to have everything complete in two weeks, and left.

[d000hg]

It will be harder to find a contract willing to wait but on the flip-side, you have a job already so can take your time waiting for such a contract to appear.